A recent study from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, published in the prestigious journal Nature, brings new insights into how certain mouth bacteria can affect the progression of colon cancer. They focused on a specific bacterium called Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), which is commonly associated with gum disease, and its role in speeding up the growth of colon tumors.
Colon cancer is a significant health issue, killing over 52,000 Americans each year according to the American Cancer Society. This study opens up new ways to tackle this widespread disease.
“There is an unquestionable link between oral and systemic health,” says MD Periodontics co-founder Dr. Abdy Moshrefi. “This study further supports the importance of oral hygiene and the management of periodontal disease to reduce the risk of chronic ailments such as colon cancer and heart disease. A holistic approach must include the microbiome of the oral cavity to promote longevity and health.”
The impact of oral bacteria on colon cancer
By analyzing colon tumor samples from 200 patients, the researchers found that one particular type of F. nucleatum — the Fna C2 subtype — is more likely to be found in cancer cells. About 50% of the cases only had the Fna C2 subtype. They also found that Fna C2 is more common in the stool of people with colon cancer than in healthy individuals.
Susan Bullman, a co-author of the study and an expert in cancer-related microbes at Fred Hutch, pointed out a clear link: tumors with F. nucleatum often mean worse outcomes for patients. This suggests that focusing on this specific type of bacteria could help those battling colon cancer.
The team also discovered that only the Fna C2 subtype of F. nucleatum can move from the mouth to the colon.
The study introduces the idea of using bacteria-based “cellular therapies” to fight colon cancer. This method involves changing bacteria genetically to deliver treatment right to the cancer, a big step forward in making cancer treatment more precise.
Christopher Johnston, another lead researcher and molecular microbiologist at Fred Hutch, stressed the importance of pinpointing the exact bacteria related to colon cancer. Knowing exactly which bacteria are involved can lead to better ways to prevent and treat the disease, potentially changing how we deal with this deadly cancer.
Bridging oral health and colon cancer
This breakthrough study not only deepens our understanding of how bacteria influence colon cancer but also opens the door to new treatments and prevention strategies. Using these new insights to improve how we care for patients could greatly improve outcomes for those facing colon cancer.
MD Periodontics: your partners in oral health
Dr. Abdy Moshrefi and Dr. Nazanin Daneshman are a husband-and-wife team of board-certified periodontists and holistic dentists.
At their Beverly Hills periodontology clinic, they aim to provide a relaxing and supportive environment for their patients. Advanced technology, excellent training, a soft bedside manner, and a stylish environment will make oral care a pleasure, not an obligation.
Schedule a consultation online or call us at (310) 859-9449. A spa-like atmosphere, staffed by a team who truly cares about your smile, awaits you!
MD Periodontics is conveniently located for patients throughout the metropolitan Los Angeles area. Our board-certified periodontists and implant dentistry experts are available at locations in or near Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Culver City, West Hollywood, Downtown Los Angeles, Marina del Rey, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, Sherman Oaks, and Encino.